NC’s resolution on special status, statehood comes under Opposition fire: ‘Why not in Assembly?’

By | May 22, 2025

The National Conference (NC) recently moved a resolution demanding special status and full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir. This resolution came as part of the party’s continued campaign against the revocation of Article 370 and the change of Jammu and Kashmir’s status in August 2019. However, opposition parties quickly fired back. They questioned why such a crucial resolution was not introduced and debated in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly. The opposition claims that bypassing the Assembly undermines democratic processes.

Background: The Demand for Special Status and Statehood

Jammu and Kashmir once enjoyed a special constitutional status under Article 370 of the Indian Constitution. This article granted the region autonomy over internal matters, except defense, foreign affairs, and finance. In August 2019, the Indian government revoked this status and reorganized Jammu and Kashmir into two separate union territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

Since then, political tensions in the region have intensified. Many political parties, including the NC, strongly oppose this change. The NC has demanded the restoration of special status and full statehood, arguing that these are necessary to protect the rights, identity, and development of the people in Jammu and Kashmir.

The recent resolution by the NC reiterates this demand. It calls for the restoration of Article 370 and the return of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The NC claims that without these measures, the region’s political stability and social harmony cannot be ensured.

Opposition Voices Concern Over Bypassing the Assembly

Despite agreeing with the NC’s demand for special status and statehood in principle, opposition parties have criticized the manner in which the resolution was introduced. Leaders from different political groups question why the NC did not present the resolution in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, where elected representatives debate and decide such important issues.

A senior leader from an opposition party stated, “If the NC truly believes in this cause and represents the people’s voice, it should have brought the resolution to the Assembly. The people deserve transparency and democratic debate on such a critical matter.”

Opposition members argue that presenting the resolution outside the Assembly, in public statements or through other platforms, weakens the democratic process. They say it denies the elected representatives the chance to discuss and influence the decision.

Some opposition leaders also question the timing of the NC’s move. They suggest that the resolution might be aimed more at gaining political mileage ahead of upcoming elections than at resolving the region’s real issues.

The Political Context and Stakes

The political environment in Jammu and Kashmir remains highly sensitive since the revocation of Article 370. The NC is positioning itself as the main defender of the region’s autonomy and identity. The party hopes to rally public support by pushing for the restoration of special status and full statehood.

On the other hand, several other political groups worry that such demands, especially if not debated within formal institutions, could further polarize the political climate. They warn that political posturing risks sidelining practical solutions for governance, development, and peace in the region.

Political analysts observe that the NC’s resolution could be a strategic move to regain relevance. The party suffered setbacks in recent elections, and the special status demand helps it reconnect with voters who feel disenfranchised by the changes in Jammu and Kashmir’s status.

What Does the Resolution Say?

The NC’s resolution highlights several key points:

  • The party demands the immediate restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370.
  • It calls for the return of full statehood to the region, ending its status as a union territory.
  • The resolution emphasizes that only full statehood can restore political stability and help economic development.
  • It also points to the need for protecting the cultural identity and rights of the people.
  • The NC condemns what it describes as the “unilateral” decision by the central government to alter the region’s status without adequate local consultation.

Why the Opposition Wants the Resolution in the Assembly

The opposition stresses the need for democratic debate and accountability. The Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly consists of elected representatives who speak for different parts of the region. This Assembly is the proper place for debating matters that affect the entire population.

By not bringing the resolution into the Assembly, the NC missed an opportunity to allow other parties to voice their opinions. This also limited public scrutiny and transparency.

Opposition leaders are calling for an Assembly session dedicated to discussing the region’s status. They argue that this will ensure the voices of all stakeholders are heard.

The Call for Legislative Session Gains Momentum

In recent weeks, various political groups and civil society organizations have joined calls for reconvening the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly. Since the revocation of Article 370, the Assembly has seen very limited activity. Holding a session could allow elected members to debate critical issues such as special status, statehood, security, and development challenges.

Experts and activists believe that restoring the Assembly’s functioning is essential for democratic governance in the region. They stress that public confidence in political institutions depends on transparent and inclusive processes.

Public Reaction and Impact on Jammu and Kashmir

The public response to the NC’s resolution and the opposition’s criticism has been mixed. Many residents support the NC’s demand for special status and statehood, viewing it as necessary to protect the region’s identity and rights. Others express frustration at the political wrangling, wanting practical solutions to daily problems such as unemployment, security concerns, and infrastructure development.

The debate also shines a light on the broader challenge facing Jammu and Kashmir: balancing constitutional, political, and social demands while maintaining peace and progress.

Conclusion: A Crucial Political Crossroad

The NC’s resolution demanding special status and full statehood for Jammu and Kashmir has reopened political debates in the region. Opposition parties have rightly highlighted the importance of following democratic procedures by raising such demands in the Legislative Assembly.

The coming weeks will likely determine whether the Assembly will convene to discuss these critical issues. For the people of Jammu and Kashmir, transparent debate and democratic decision-making remain vital. Only through inclusive discussions can the region move toward stability, development, and reconciliation.

As political leaders continue their campaigns, the hope among citizens is for meaningful dialogue and action, not just political statements. The demand for special status and statehood is more than a slogan; it represents deep concerns about identity, rights, and future prospects. It deserves the full attention of the region’s elected representatives in a democratic forum.